Getting back into riding 8 years later?

[justwanttolookgood]

I've been longing to get back into it.

As a little girl, I was a keen Pony Club member, loved show jumping, etc etc

Tried hunting and loved it.

But I left and it always feels like something has been missing in my life.

DH wants to buy me a private lesson for my birthday.

I'm wondering, what will they allow me to attempt the first time I'm back in the saddle?

I don't expect to be jumping But do you think, if all goes well, they'll allow me to have a canter?

I feel extremely confident getting back on. I visited a distant stable recently and was itching to ride, I could even see people not sitting deep enough and keeping their heels down. I wanted to correct them, but obviously I didn't because I'm not a cheeky mare.

I feel like I still know what I'm doing. Do you think the chances are fair that I'll get to canter?

Sorry to bombard with questions, I'm so excited. Never have I felt more content and beaming than when I'm on a horse. I don't think much has changed

I'd see how you feel once you're on board to be honest. The longest break I've ever had from riding has only been a few weeks but I do know that unless I'm riding frequently my skill level and confidence drops.

There's no reason why you couldn't canter a riding school horse but it's not the be all and end all. Relax and enjoy being back in the saddle, without the pressure of expectation!

Tell your instructor that’s what you want to do! It’s your lesson! Have fun!

I'd just take it steady with no expectations. Enjoy it! Start with the basics until you feel confident and if you feel happy and if you are not too tired at the end of the lesson, have a little canter then. But if you don't, it doesn't matter, there's always next time. Don't rush it! Your riding fitness will come back gradually.

I had a 11+ year break (no horse contact at all) by the end of my first lesson I was doing shoulder in, cantering 10m circles, counter canter etc. Before the lesson I was worried I might have forgotten everything but within 1 min of getting on it felt as if I’d never had a break.
Have fun.

See how you feel, its not just down to confidence, some of your muscles might not be as strong as they were either, main thing - just enjoy it!